Tenant Rights 101: Heat, Hot Water, and Security Deposits in NYC

Finding an apartment in New York is hard work, but living in one shouldn't be a battle. While most landlord-tenant relationships are positive, they are also defined by strict laws designed to protect your safety and your money.

Knowledge is power. Whether you are signing your first lease or your tenth, understanding these three fundamental rights is essential for a stress-free tenancy.

1. The "Heat Season" Laws

In NYC, a freezing apartment isn't just uncomfortable; it's illegal. The city enforces a strict "Heat Season" from October 1st through May 31st.

During this period, landlords must provide heat if the outside temperature falls below a certain threshold:

• Daytime (6:00 AM – 10:00 PM): If it’s below 55°F outside, your apartment must be at least 68°F inside.

• Nighttime (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM): Regardless of the outdoor temperature, your apartment must be at least 62°F inside.

If your apartment is freezing, your first step is to contact the landlord or super. If they don't resolve it, you have the right to file a complaint with 311.

2. Hot Water: A 24/7/365 Requirement

Unlike heat, hot water has no season. By law, landlords must provide hot water 365 days a year.

• The water must be a constant minimum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit at the tap.

• This applies to every sink, bathtub, and shower in the unit.

3. Security Deposits: The 14-Day Rule

For years, getting a security deposit back was a waiting game that could drag on for months. The Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 changed that.

Now, the rules are very specific:

• The Cap: A landlord cannot ask for more than one month's rent as a security deposit.

• The Timeline: The landlord must return your deposit (minus any itemized deductions) within 14 days of you vacating the apartment.

• Itemized Deductions: If they keep any part of your money for repairs, they must provide an itemized list explaining exactly what was fixed and how much it cost. If they fail to provide this list within the 14-day window, they may forfeit the right to keep any of the deposit.

Note: This does not apply to "normal wear and tear," which you cannot be charged for.

The Warranty of Habitability

Above all, you have the right to a livable, safe, and sanitary home. This is called the Warranty of Habitability.

This covers everything from pest infestations (roaches, mice, bedbugs) to mold, lead paint, and functional plumbing. You cannot "sign away" this right in a lease; even if a lease says "as-is," the landlord is still legally required to maintain livable standards.

A Relationship Built on Respect

At get.apartments, we believe the best rental experiences happen when both parties—landlords and tenants—respect the rules.

By understanding your rights, you can advocate for yourself effectively. And by using a platform that prioritizes transparency, you can find landlords who value good tenants just as much as you value a good home.

Next Step: Ready to find a landlord who treats you right? Create your Desire Profile today and let the professionals come to you.